Congo Gets Tough on Wildlife

April 4, 2014

PALF

Despite the recent uptick of wildlife crime in Congo, authorities are committed to protecting wildlife, increasing law enforcement and enlisting the help of sniffer dogs.

The Government of Congo is not backing down from their commitment to end wildlife trafficking. This week, a major seizure of illegal bushmeat occurred at Maya Maya International Airport in Brazzaville – authorities confiscated 40 animals, including monkeys, antelope, and porcupine.

Within the same week, two bushmeat traffickers who are now awaiting trial were arrested transporting 30 carcasses of similar wildlife. Both incidents and arrests were assisted by PALF (Project for the Application of Law fro Fauna – Republic of Congo).

Recent improvements like roads and transportation hubs in Congo have unfortunately led to an uptick in wildlife crimes, but authorities are holding their ground. PALF launched a sniffer dog program last month to as part of their ongoing effort to eliminate trafficking.